Scarborough Police investigating fraud incidents after elderly targeted
Police say there could be other victims who haven't come forward
North Yorkshire Police are hgihlighting two types of fraud which have affected some older residents in Scarborough this week.
The force says there may be other victims who have not reported it to them.
Nathan Stuart, a Police Community Support Officer in the town, said: "One caller has claimed to be from a Police fraud team, and has convinced the victim to attend their bank to withdraw money from their account and send it via Royal Mail to different addresses for safekeeping.
"I can only provide a snapshot of the incident as this is currently under investigation, however, I do want to raise awareness. I feel after reading the report, it may be that the older generation have been targeted in this scam.
"The second scam I want to tell you about, is where another older victim has received a message, stating that she has a gift which was intercepted at Customs at the airport, and she was required to pay for the release and delivery. She was requested to pay a large sum of money via gift cards. Following the payment, the suspect demanded a larger sum of money, using the threat of arrest and jail as leverage for more money.
"Both the victims of these frauds are receiving support from our teams whilst investigations are ongoing, however, I want to raise awareness of these types of deception.
"Please talk to family members, especially the older generations, who may not be up to date with knowing what to look for.
"Look for new regular callers out of the blue, who try to be secretive.
"If someone calls you, claiming to be from the bank, tell them you will call them back - hang up, wait a few minutes, have a brew, then call the number you trust. Maybe from a bank statement or the one on the back of your card.
"If someone calls, and tells you they are Police, or from a fraud team, take their details and advise them that you are going to verify them. Hang up, have a brew, then call 101, speak to our control toom and let them know the details - if its a genuine call, our control room will advise you.
"If its too good to be true - it usually is, and can be part of a deception.
"If you work in a retail business, please be aware of multiple gift card purchases for large values. Engage where possible with your customer, and if you feel there is an exploitation, dont be afraid to contact us.
"You can report fraud to us on 101. Alternatively, you can visit our website to report online."